Very good article. I particularly liked his definition of the ubiquitous Michigan Man:

“I understood what being a Michigan Man was all about,” Avant said in an interview with the Daily. “It wasn’t about my talent anymore, it wasn’t about me being the best football player, but me encouraging my university, me encouraging my teammates, and that was the change in my career.“

This one was written in 2004 when he was still in school. Really gets into his relationship with his grandmother and his upbringing in Chicago neighborhoods. I had a chance to speak with Jason on a couple occassions when he was in school, and there could not be a more thoughtful, compassionate, gracious Michigan man. He has beaten so many odds, it's hard for someone like me to comprehend.

Here's to hoping he can continue to improve his production in the NFL - I'm in a decent sized league and picked him up as my extra WR. Has increased his receiving yards by more than 100/season every year in the league.

He has become the Eagles most sure handed reciever and even though he lacks the physical ability of Maclin and Jackson he is more willing to risk his body for the team, it is awesome having him and a few other former Michigan players on my hometown Eagles.